Joshua 17:18

KJV

But the mountain shall be thine; for it [is] a wood, and thou shalt cut it down: and the outgoings of it shall be thine: for thou shalt drive out the Canaanites, though they have iron chariots, [and] though they [be] strong.

KJV (with Strong's)

But the mountain {H2022} shall be thine; for it is a wood {H3293}, and thou shalt cut it down {H1254}: and the outgoings {H8444} of it shall be thine: for thou shalt drive out {H3423} the Canaanites {H3669}, though they have iron {H1270} chariots {H7393}, and though they be strong {H2389}.

Complete Jewish Bible

but the hills too will be yours. Although it is a forest, you will clear it, and the resulting open land will be yours. You will drive out the Kena'ani, even though they have iron chariots and are strong."

Berean Standard Bible

because the hill country will be yours as well. It is a forest; clear it, and its farthest limits will be yours. Although the Canaanites have iron chariots and although they are strong, you can drive them out.”

American Standard Version

but the hill-country shall be thine; for though it is a forest, thou shalt cut it down, and the goings out thereof shall be thine; for thou shalt drive out the Canaanites, though they have chariots of iron, and though they are strong.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 17:18 presents Joshua's firm and empowering response to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, who expressed discontent over their allotted territory and the formidable Canaanite presence. Joshua assures them of their full inheritance in the mountainous, wooded regions, emphasizing that while this land demands diligent effort to clear and occupy, God's enabling promise empowers them to overcome even the most powerful adversaries, symbolized by "iron chariots." This verse profoundly underscores the principle that divine promise necessitates human perseverance and faith in actively realizing God's blessings.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the climactic conclusion to a significant dialogue between Joshua and the "children of Joseph" (Ephraim and Manasseh) found in [Joshua 17:14-18](/joshua/17-14-18 "Joshua 17:14-18 - Joseph's Complaint and Joshua's Reply"). The tribes complain that their portion of land is insufficient for their numerous people and that the Canaanites residing in the valley possess formidable "iron chariots" ([Joshua 17:16](/joshua/17-16 "Joshua 17:16 - Joseph's Complaint About Iron Chariots")). Joshua's response directly addresses their concerns, first by affirming their numerical strength as a reason for a larger inheritance ([Joshua 17:17](/joshua/17-17 "Joshua 17:17 - Joshua's Affirmation of Joseph's Strength")), and then by challenging them to actively possess the difficult, forested mountain region. This exchange marks a crucial transition in the book of Joshua: from the initial miraculous, large-scale conquests to the ongoing, often challenging, work of full occupation and settlement, which requires the Israelites' sustained effort and faith.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period immediately following the initial conquest of Canaan, leading into the era of the Judges, was characterized by the Israelites' struggle to fully dispossess the indigenous Canaanite populations. "Iron chariots" represented the pinnacle of military technology in the Late Bronze Age and early Iron Age. These vehicles, often reinforced with metal, offered superior speed, mobility, and striking power, particularly on flat terrain, making them a significant tactical advantage for the Canaanites. The Canaanites, with their fortified cities and advanced weaponry, were indeed formidable opponents. The mountainous regions, while offering natural defenses, were typically heavily forested and less immediately desirable for settlement compared to the fertile valleys. Clearing such land for agriculture and habitation was a monumental task, demanding sustained labor, organization, and a willingness to confront the existing inhabitants. This verse vividly portrays the practical realities of tribal land distribution and the immense challenges faced by the Israelites in establishing their presence throughout Canaan.
* **Key Themes:** Joshua 17:18 powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes central to the book of Joshua and the broader biblical narrative. It underscores the theme of **Divine Inheritance and Human Responsibility**, revealing that God's sovereign promise of the land, first given to Abraham ([Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise of Land to Abram")), requires the Israelites' diligent effort to "cut it down" and "drive out" the inhabitants. It also highlights the theme of **Overcoming Formidable Obstacles**, as the "iron chariots" symbolize seemingly insurmountable challenges, yet God's command implies His enablement for victory, echoing earlier divine interventions and assurances ([Deuteronomy 31:6](/deuteronomy/31-6 "Deuteronomy 31:6 - Be Strong and Courageous")). Finally, the passage emphasizes **Faith and Perseverance**, calling the tribes to trust in God's word and actively pursue their inheritance despite the difficulties, rather than being deterred by the strength of their enemies or the arduousness of the task. This active engagement is crucial for realizing the fullness of God's blessings.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **"wood" (Hebrew, _yaʻar'_):** From H3293, this term refers to a dense, untamed forest or thicket. In this context, it signifies an area that is wild, uncultivated, and requires significant labor to clear for settlement and agriculture. It represents a physical obstacle that must be overcome through diligent human effort, transforming wilderness into habitable land.
* **"cut it down" (Hebrew, _bârâʼ'_):** From H1254, this primitive root can mean "to create" in an absolute sense, but here, in a qualified sense, it means "to cut down (a wood)." It refers specifically to the laborious process of felling trees and clearing undergrowth to make the land arable and suitable for habitation. This word implies sustained, physical work and active engagement in transforming the wilderness into a productive inheritance.
* **"drive out" (Hebrew, _yârash'_):** From H3423, this primitive root carries the dual meaning of "to occupy (by driving out previous tenants, and possessing in their place)" and "to inherit." In this context, it means to forcibly remove the current inhabitants (the Canaanites) from the land so that Israel can take full possession of their inheritance. It highlights the military and spiritual imperative of conquering the land as commanded by God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But the mountain shall be thine;"**: Joshua directly addresses the complaint of the tribes of Joseph regarding their insufficient land. He affirms that the mountainous region, which they may have viewed as undesirable or difficult, is indeed part of their promised inheritance. This establishes the divine decree and the certainty of their claim, setting the stage for their responsibility.
* **"for it [is] a wood, and thou shalt cut it down:"**: This clause explains *why* the mountain is theirs and *what* is required of them. The "wood" (dense forest) signifies the inherent challenge and the labor involved. The command "thou shalt cut it down" is an imperative, demanding active, diligent effort to clear the land. This is not a passive inheritance but one that necessitates strenuous work and transformation.
* **"and the outgoings of it shall be thine:"**: This phrase emphasizes the full extent of their inheritance. "Outgoings" (H8444, _tôwtsâʼâh_) refers to the borders or full scope of the territory. Once cleared and possessed, the entire region, from its interior to its boundaries, will belong to them. It promises comprehensive ownership as a reward for their labor and obedience.
* **"for thou shalt drive out the Canaanites,"**: This provides the ultimate reason for their possession and the means by which it will be secured. The command to "drive out" (H3423, _yârash_) is a direct instruction for military action and dispossessing the current inhabitants. It reiterates God's mandate for Israel to occupy the land fully, asserting their claim through conquest.
* **"though they have iron chariots, [and] though they [be] strong."**: This final clause directly confronts the fear and perceived strength of the enemy. Joshua acknowledges the formidable nature of the Canaanites, particularly their advanced military technology ("iron chariots," H1270, _barzel_, and H7393, _rekeb_) and their inherent strength (H2389, _châzâq_). However, the repeated "though" clause implies that these obstacles are not insurmountable in the face of God's promise and Israel's obedience. It serves as a powerful assurance that God's power transcends even the most advanced human might and formidable opposition.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 17:18 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message. **Metaphor** is evident in the "mountain" and "wood," which symbolize not just physical terrain but also the inherent challenges, arduous labor, and uncultivated potential required to possess their inheritance. The "iron chariots" serve as a potent **symbol** of seemingly insurmountable obstacles and the formidable strength of the enemy, amplifying the magnitude of the task. Joshua's words also function as a direct **exhortation** and **command**, shifting the tribes' focus from complaint and fear to active responsibility and courageous engagement. The repeated affirmation "shall be thine" creates a strong sense of **certainty** and **divine promise**, contrasting sharply with the acknowledged difficulties. Finally, the structure of the verse, particularly the "though... yet" implied construction ("though they be strong, *yet* you shall drive them out"), functions as a powerful **antithesis**, highlighting the triumph of divine enablement and human obedience over perceived impossibility.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 17:18 stands as a pivotal statement regarding the nature of God's promises and humanity's indispensable role in their fulfillment. It reveals that divine inheritance, while sovereignly granted and unconditionally secure in its ultimate reality, often requires diligent human effort and unwavering faith for its realization in the present. The "mountain" and "wood" represent the challenges inherent in any significant undertaking, while the "iron chariots" symbolize the formidable spiritual and physical opposition that God's people may face. Yet, Joshua's declaration assures that God's power enables His people to overcome even the most daunting obstacles, provided they act in obedience and perseverance. This verse underscores the active partnership between God's faithfulness and human responsibility in realizing the fullness of His blessings, reminding believers that the path to promised victory often involves arduous labor and courageous confrontation of adversaries, all empowered by God.

* [Deuteronomy 7:17-19](/deuteronomy/7-17-19 "Deuteronomy 7:17-19 - Do Not Be Afraid of Them")
* [Philippians 4:13](/philippians/4-13 "Philippians 4:13 - I Can Do All Things Through Christ")
* [James 2:26](/james/2-26 "James 2:26 - Faith Without Works Is Dead")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 17:18 offers profound and enduring lessons for believers navigating the complexities of life and faith today. We often encounter "mountains" that seem too difficult to climb, "woods" that appear too dense to clear, and "iron chariots" representing overwhelming obstacles—whether they are spiritual battles, personal struggles, professional challenges, or systemic injustices. This verse powerfully reminds us that our inheritance in Christ, while freely given, often calls for active participation, diligent effort, and courageous faith. It challenges us to move beyond complaint and fear, embracing the reality that God empowers us to confront and overcome what appears insurmountable. Just as the tribes of Joseph were called to clear their land and dispossess their enemies, we are called to actively "cut down" the "woods" of sin, doubt, and complacency in our lives, and to "drive out" the spiritual forces and negative patterns that hinder our walk with God. Our victory is assured not by our own might, but by God's enabling power and our obedient perseverance.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "mountains" or "woods" in your life currently feel too daunting to clear, and what specific steps can you take to begin "cutting them down" in faith?**
* **What "iron chariots" (seemingly insurmountable obstacles or powerful adversaries) are you facing, and how can you rely on God's strength rather than your own to "drive them out"?**
* **How does this verse challenge your understanding of divine provision – does it lead you to passive waiting or active engagement?**
* **In what areas of your life are you called to persevere and exercise faith, even "though" the task seems difficult or the opposition strong?**

### FAQ
**What were "iron chariots" and why were they so feared?**

Answer: "Iron chariots" (Hebrew: _rekhev barzel_) refer to a sophisticated and formidable military technology of the Late Bronze Age and Early Iron Age. These were typically two-wheeled vehicles, pulled by two horses, designed for rapid maneuverability and offensive striking on open terrain. The "iron" component likely refers to metal reinforcements (perhaps on the wheels, axles, or scythes attached to the wheels) that made them more durable and devastating than earlier wooden chariots. They were feared because they could break enemy lines, pursue fleeing soldiers, and were difficult to counter with infantry alone, especially in open ground. For the Israelites, who were primarily foot soldiers, these chariots represented a significant tactical advantage for the Canaanites, instilling fear and making full conquest seem impossible in certain regions ([Joshua 17:16](/joshua/17-16 "Joshua 17:16 - Joseph's Complaint About Iron Chariots")). Joshua's assurance in [Joshua 17:18](/joshua/17-18 "Joshua 17:18 - Joshua's Assurance to Joseph's Descendants") directly confronts this fear, emphasizing God's power over human military might.

**Does this verse imply that God's promises are conditional on human effort?**

Answer: This verse highlights a crucial biblical tension: God's sovereign promises are indeed certain and unconditional in their ultimate fulfillment, yet their realization in human experience often involves human cooperation, obedience, and effort. The land was promised to Abraham's descendants unconditionally ([Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise to Abram")), but taking full possession of it required Israel's active participation in warfare and clearing the land. Joshua 17:18 demonstrates that God's enablement is present *for* the task He commands. It's not that their effort *earns* the promise, but rather that their effort *actualizes* or *realizes* the promise in their lived experience. God provides the power ("thou shalt drive out"), but they must wield the sword and the axe ("thou shalt cut it down"). This principle is seen throughout Scripture, where God's grace empowers us to do what He calls us to do, demonstrating that faith without works is dead ([James 2:26](/james/2-26 "James 2:26 - Faith Without Works Is Dead")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 17:18 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the true and greater Joshua, leading His people into their ultimate inheritance. The "mountain" and "wood" that the tribes of Joseph were commanded to clear prefigure the spiritual "mountains" of sin, death, and the works of the devil that humanity could never overcome on its own. Jesus, through His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection, has decisively "cut down" the power of sin ([Romans 6:6](/romans/6-6 "Romans 6:6 - Our Old Self Crucified with Christ")) and "driven out" the spiritual enemies that held humanity captive ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). The "iron chariots" of the Canaanites, representing seemingly insurmountable human and spiritual opposition, are ultimately vanquished by Christ's triumph on the cross, where He disarmed the rulers and authorities ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). Believers, united with Christ, are now heirs to an eternal, spiritual inheritance ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Inheritance Imperishable")) that requires not physical conquest but spiritual perseverance. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, we are called to actively "drive out" the remnants of sin in our lives ([Ephesians 4:22-24](/ephesians/4-22-24 "Ephesians 4:22-24 - Put Off the Old Self, Put On the New")) and to stand firm against the schemes of the devil ([Ephesians 6:11](/ephesians/6-11 "Ephesians 6:11 - Put On the Whole Armor of God")), knowing that the victory is already secured in Christ and that we can do all things through Him who strengthens us ([Philippians 4:13](/philippians/4-13 "Philippians 4:13 - I Can Do All Things Through Christ")). The "outgoings" of this spiritual inheritance are boundless, extending into eternity, all made possible by the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Hebrews 13:6

So that we may boldly say, The Lord [is] my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

Romans 8:31

¶ What shall we then say to these things? If God [be] for us, who [can be] against us?

Numbers 14:6

And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, [which were] of them that searched the land, rent their clothes:

Numbers 14:9

Only rebel not ye against the LORD, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they [are] bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the LORD [is] with us: fear them not.

Romans 8:37

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

Isaiah 41:10

¶ Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Isaiah 41:16

Thou shalt fan them, and the wind shall carry them away, and the whirlwind shall scatter them: and thou shalt rejoice in the LORD, [and] shalt glory in the Holy One of Israel.